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Transitioning from a corporate career to becoming a full-time artist is no small feat. Artist Candace Carroll shares her inspiring journey, from growing up surrounded by art to discovering her unique voice in abstract and textured floral paintings. In her interview on The Art Coaching Club Podcast, Candace opens up about her challenges, triumphs, and advice for other artists on their creative paths.
From Creative Childhood to Full-Time Artist
For Candace, art has always been a part of life. Growing up with an artistic mother who painted while balancing family life, Candace was constantly surrounded by creativity. Whether it was sketching in a notebook or taking art-focused classes in school, her love for art continued to grow.
However, like many young creatives, Candace initially took a practical path, choosing business studies in college. After one challenging economics class, she realized it wasn’t for her. Inspired to follow her passion, Candace shifted her focus to photography, a field that offered creative fulfillment with more perceived career stability.
Finding Her Artistic Voice
Over the years, Candace’s creative practice evolved, particularly during the pandemic when she had more time to paint at home. She converted a barn on her property into a studio space, allowing her to immerse herself fully in her art.
Initially starting with watercolor house paintings, Candace began experimenting with different mediums like acrylics and oils. This exploration led her to develop her current style: a blend of abstract and textured florals and landscapes.
The layers and textures she achieves have become defining characteristics of her work. This evolution showcases how important it is for artists to stay open to experimentation and trust the natural progression of their creative journey.
Building a Business: Marketing, Social Media, and Balance
While Candace has built a successful art career, she acknowledges the challenges of marketing. For many artists, balancing business tasks with studio time can feel overwhelming. However, Candace has found a rhythm that works for her, emphasizing the importance of focusing on strategies that feel authentic.
Here’s what has worked for her:
Engaging Social Media Presence: Candace uses Instagram to showcase her work and connect directly with her audience. By responding thoughtfully and staying active, she’s been able to grow her following organically.
Building an Email List: Candace uses email newsletters to engage her audience and keep collectors informed about new releases and updates. This allows her to connect more directly, without relying solely on social media algorithms.
Word-of-Mouth Marketing: Happy collectors have become one of her biggest assets, helping spread the word about her work to new audiences.
Candace also emphasizes the importance of being selective with commissions. Early on, many artists feel the need to take on every project, but Candace has learned to prioritize work that aligns with her vision and creative goals. This approach has allowed her to avoid burnout and stay inspired.
Advice for Artists: Persistence, Authenticity, and Avoiding Comparison
Candace’s journey hasn’t been without its struggles. Like many creatives, she’s faced moments of doubt and comparison, especially in the world of social media where other artists’ successes are constantly visible.
Her advice?
Focus on Your Path: Candace encourages artists to avoid comparing themselves to others. “Create work that excites you and aligns with your vision,” she says. Staying authentic to your artistic voice will always resonate more deeply with your audience.
Take Breaks When Needed: Managing creativity alongside business responsibilities can be draining. Candace has learned to give herself space to recharge, which helps maintain her inspiration.
Build Genuine Relationships: Whether it’s connecting with other artists, partnering with galleries, or engaging with collectors, Candace believes in the power of authentic relationships to grow your career.
What’s Next for Candace Carroll
Looking ahead, Candace is excited to continue evolving her creative practice. She’s working on new abstract collections and exploring print work to make her art more accessible to a wider audience.
This next phase of her career is a testament to her persistence, growth, and dedication to staying true to her artistic voice. Whether she’s experimenting with new mediums or balancing business tasks with family life, Candace embodies the idea that success as an artist is about persistence, authenticity, and joy in the creative process.
Key Takeaways from Candace Carroll’s Journey
Stay Open to Experimentation: Your artistic style will evolve over time—don’t be afraid to try new techniques or mediums.
Balance Art and Business: Use tools like email marketing and social media, but focus on strategies that align with your personality and goals.
Be Selective with Commissions: Saying “no” to projects that don’t align with your vision allows space for more fulfilling work.
Avoid Comparison: Focus on creating work that excites you instead of chasing trends or comparing yourself to others.
Build a Supportive Community: Relationships with collectors, fellow artists, and galleries are invaluable for long-term growth.
Conclusion
Candace Carroll’s story is a powerful reminder that there’s no singular path to building a creative career. Her ability to pivot, experiment, and trust her instincts has helped her grow into a successful artist with a unique and recognizable style.
Whether you’re just starting out or looking to grow your art business, Candace’s journey highlights the importance of persistence, authenticity, and finding joy in the process.
Want to learn more from artists like Candace? Tune into The Art Coaching Club Podcast for inspiring interviews, tips, and stories to help you grow your art career.
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